Qatar Amir, PM discuss cooperation for prosperity

By Pallav Bhusal,Kathmandu, Apr. 25: Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' and His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Amir of Qatar, held bilateral talks in the capital on Wednesday.

The discussions centred on cementing the bond between Nepal and Qatar, underlining the importance of mutual cooperation for the prosperity of both nations.

On the occasion, Prime Minister Prachanda highlighted investment potentials in Nepal with a special focus on agriculture, tourism and infrastructure sectors.

Acknowledging Qatar as a steadfast friend of Nepal, Prime Minister Prachanda emphasised the deepening and expanding nature of their relations, extending beyond governmental levels to the people. He expressed optimism that the ongoing high-level visit would further enhance mutual relations.

"The friendship extended by Qatar to Nepal has been steadfast. Our ties are evolving and reaching a new height. This bond transcends governmental connections, resonating deeply with our people," said PM Prachanda. 

Prime Minister Prachanda projected Nepal as a highly attractive investment destination, citing its potential in various sectors such as agriculture, energy, tourism, and technology. He highlighted Nepal's investment-friendly environment and invited a high-level delegation from Qatar to participate in the upcoming investment summit slated for April 28 and 29 in Nepal.

"There is immense potential to export bottled drinking water globally, given Nepal's abundant sources of pure drinking water," said PM Prachanda.

Furthermore, Prime Minister Prachanda advocated for Qatar's involvement in promoting Nepal's tourism infrastructure, including the operation of flights from additional cities like Lumbini and Pokhara. He emphasised the need to update bilateral agreements and understandings to align with current demands.

"I request the Qatar government to consider operating flights to and from Lumbini and Pokhara international airports as well," said PM Prachanda.

"Nepal continues to be the focal point for global tourism," said Prime Minister Prachanda. "Investments in Nepal's tourism infrastructure on an international scale will yield significant returns," he added. 

PM Prachanda underscored the impact of Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulla Al Thani's successful ascent of Mount Everest in May 2013 in boosting Nepal's tourism profile.

Addressing concerns about migrant labour, Prime Minister Prachanda proposed the establishment of vocational training and skill development centres in Nepal to prepare workers for employment opportunities in Qatar. He reiterated Nepal's commitment to ensuring safe and dignified foreign employment for its citizens.

Economic development emerged as a priority for Nepal, with Prime Minister Prachanda expressing hope for Qatar's assistance in large-scale infrastructure projects, including hydropower generation and healthcare facilities.

Additionally, Prime Minister Prachanda urged Qatar to take initiatives for the safe release of Bipin Joshi and called for an end to the conflict in West Asia, stressing the importance of restoring peace in the region.

"I request the Qatar government's assistance in ensuring the swift and safe release of Bipin Joshi, an innocent Nepali student who went missing following the Hamas attack in Israel," said Prime Minister Prachanda. He further added, "I humbly draw His Highness’s attention to this urgent matter."

Hari Lamichhane, the press coordinator of Prime Minister Prachanda, stated that His Highness Sheikh Tamim responded positively to the Prime Minister's proposals regarding investment destinations, highlighting the potential across sectors such as agriculture, energy, tourism, information technology and sports.

He said his visit had opened an avenue for Qatari investment in Nepal. 

His Highness Sheikh Tamim expressed Qatar's intention to research potential areas of investment across different sectors and to pursue collaboration in those sectors. 

The Amir of the State of Qatar said that the projects could be forwarded after conducting intensive discussions. 

Additionally, he responded positively in expanding direct flights to and from Pokhara and Lumbini International airports.

The Qatari Amir also lauded the significant contribution of Nepali workers to Qatar's development, expressing admiration for Nepal's efforts and pledging to cooperate with Nepal in solving the problems of Nepali migrant workers. 

He also reiterated Qatar’s commitment to assisting in enhancing the skills of Nepali workers by supporting the establishment of vocational training and skill development centres in Nepal.

The Amir of the State of Qatar said they were positive to help rescue Nepali student Bipin Joshi. 

It is the first high-level visit from Qatar after the establishment of diplomatic relations between Nepal and Qatar in 1977.